Lesson Info/Policies FAQ

 

 

How can I know if we are a good fit?

I offer a phone interview first for you to ask as many questions as you wish and for me to also ask questions to get to know about your child and whether we might be a good fit. If we mutually agree that is the case, we would next schedule a free trial lesson.

 

How often are lessons and do they follow a schedule?

Lessons are conducted at a specific weekly day and time, generally following the Pacifica School District calendar.  

What are the fees for lessons?

30 minute lessons: $40 

40 minutes - $50

Additional charge for in-home lessons based on travel distance.

Each month, except perhaps the first month depending on when a trial lesson occurs, will include a minimum of 3 billable lessons.  

 

How are fees paid?

Fees are payable by cash or check (to Helena Pacholuk) the first week of each month at lesson time. If your child will miss that week or you have forgotten payment, please remit within 3 days of the due date.

 

What about materials?

I select and provide materials tailored to your child’s needs and interests, and invoice for these as given out.  

 

What happens if my child has to miss a lesson?

First, please inform me of an absence as soon as possible. Student-missed lessons are not refunded or credited; however, if notice is given beforehand, families may choose one of the following options: 

• Rescheduling to an open slot within a month of the absence.
• Subsequent lessons may be extended over 2-3 weeks if a gap between students exists/can be widened.
• Practice Analysis and Lesson Video: Before the lesson you are canceling, video your child playing once through their assigned pieces. During the normal lesson time I will create a video with feedback on those pieces, and explain and demonstrate aspects of new pieces to begin.   
• Request to swap lesson times with another family.

 

What happens if the instructor has to miss a lesson?

If I must miss a lesson, I will make it up at a mutually convenient time or credit future tuition. 

 

Does my child need an instrument?

A keyboard or acoustic piano in the home is necessary prior to starting lessons. Students may start lessons with a smaller than standard keyboard, but by the second year of instruction, I advise upgrading to an acoustic or larger (ideally full–size) digital piano.

 

What is expected in terms of practice?

Before starting lessons, it is important to consider how practice will fit into your family's routine. Will your child be able to practice at least five days per week for 10 to 15 minutes minimum and increase over time?  Most children will need reminders to get started with practice, and may need help to follow through on their assignments. If the child is young and/or has special needs, they may need more assistance with practice.

 

Can I discontinue lessons at any time?

If you decide to discontinue lessons and fees for the current month have already been paid, you can choose to finish out the remaining lessons of the month or discontinue without refund/finishing. I appreciate at least 2 weeks' notice of the intent to discontinue. I may likewise suggest discontinuing lessons for a number of reasons.  I will communicate with you early if there are signs of problems, so that we can try to remedy them.